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10 Best HVAC Companies in Laguna Woods, CA

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Written By Bradford Cuthrell

Last Updated February 2024

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. With the cost of living in Laguna Woods, you're likely eager to save money on your energy bills.

We've assembled this guide to Laguna Woods' top HVAC companies to help you hire the best person for your job and get your system into top shape.

Top 10 Best HVAC Companies in Laguna Woods

McMaster Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc

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2 McLaren Unit #C, Irvine, CA 92618 (949) 481-7995 mcmasterair.com

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Free quote

Services Offered

Furnace installation
Ducting
Emergency services
Ac repair
Maintenance
Ac installation
Furnace repair
Ventilation
Ductless

1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.

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23372 Madero Suite B, Mission Viejo, CA 92691 (949) 204-0859 1stchoiceairconditioning.com

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Services Offered

Furnace repair
Filtration
Ac installation
Indoor air quality
Ac repair
Furnace installation
Zoning systems
Maintenance
Ductless
Ventilation

White Mechanical, Inc.

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27221 Burbank, Foothill Ranch, CA 92610 (949) 328-3370 whitemechanical.com

Informative resources

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Duct cleaning
Filtration
Ducting
Emergency services
Maintenance
Ac repair
Ventilation
Indoor air quality
Ductless
Ac installation

D C's Heating & Air Conditioning

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24872 Wells Fargo Dr, Laguna Hills, CA 92653 (949) 770-9616 dcsair.com

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Services Offered

Ac installation
Furnace repair
Indoor air quality
Ac repair
Inspection
Ventilation
Thermostat installation
Emergency services
Maintenance
Ductless

Just Right Services

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23482 Peralta Dr Suite C, Laguna Hills, CA 92653 (949) 264-3013 justrightservices.net

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Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Free quote

Services Offered

Duct cleaning
Indoor air quality
Emergency services
Filtration
Ac installation
Ac repair
Furnace repair
Ductless
Maintenance

Guaranteed Quality Heating and Air

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15560 Rockfield Blvd Suite B100, Irvine, CA 92618 (714) 389-3925 gqheatingandair.com

Clear pricing policy

Free quote

Informative resources

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Maintenance
Ac installation
Furnace installation
Ductless
Indoor air quality
Furnace repair
Filtration
Emergency services
Ac repair

Air Care Heating And Air Conditioning

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30211 Avenida de las Banderas #200, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 (949) 482-2911 aircareheatingandairconditioning.com

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Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Ductless
Filtration
Ac installation
Ac repair
Emergency services
Maintenance
Indoor air quality

Lewis Air Services

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30052 Aventura Ste A, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 (949) 430-7403 lewisair.com

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Prompt service delivery

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Ductless
Indoor air quality
Ac installation
Duct cleaning
Ac repair
Furnace installation
Maintenance

Real Time Bros Heating And Air Conditioning

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2650 Walnut Ave r, Tustin, CA 92780 (714) 583-6055 realtimebroshvac.com

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Informative resources

Prompt service delivery

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Maintenance
Ductless
Indoor air quality
Duct cleaning
Ac installation
Ac repair
Radiant heating

Greenstar Home Services / RighTime Home Services

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1821 McGaw Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 (714) 361-2917 ars.com

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Services Offered

Maintenance
Emergency services
Ac installation
Smart home integration
Inspection
Ac repair
Duct cleaning
Indoor air quality
Today's Homeowner Ranking Methodology

Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on hvac companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:

  • Company Experience
  • Real User Reviews
  • Company Reputation
  • Accreditations and Licenses
  • Service Area
  • Customer Service
Have questions about our methodology or company ratings? Reach out to FindAPro@TodaysHomeowner.com.

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or outdated likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:

  • Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
  • Strange noises when turning on
  • Unusually high energy bills
  • Refrigerant leaks
  • Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
  • Corrosion, cracking, or rust
  • Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
  • An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Laguna Woods

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

  • Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork isn’t suited for a central HVAC system, you likely have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have indoor units in each room to regulate temperature. These indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
  • Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system works almost the same as a standard split system. It has the benefit of being able to utilize either electricity or gas for power.
  • Heat pump: Heat pumps work by transferring hot and cold air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't generate heat or air conditioning themselves, and are more suited to more moderate climates. They may not be as effective during Laguna Woods' hot summers.
  • Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are good for smaller homes. Packaged systems consist of a single heating and cooling unit, normally located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

HVAC expenses vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need a number of types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:

HVAC Unit Type Cost
Split $2,035-$5,187
Hybrid Split $4,123-$7,596
Heat Pump $3,193-$32,531
Packaged Heating and Air $267-$445

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.

  • Keep your system clean. Keeping your indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, ductwork, and grills clean helps your HVAC system function effectively and lowers your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association suggests cleaning your home's HVAC system when you notice it starting to get dirty.
  • Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the colder months allows passive solar heating to warm your home. Closing the blinds during the summer helps prevent the same heat from getting inside. Doing both helps decrease the strain on your HVAC system.
  • Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for issues — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you get ahead of problems before they get too expensive.
  • Change filters regularly. Cleaning or replacing your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your system. You should also try to keep debris away from the outside areas of your HVAC system as much as possible.

Service Cost
Filter Replacement $67-$178
Condensor Cleaning $1,336-$4,007
Thermostat Repair $89-$223
Ductwork Cleaning $427-$1,069

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary licensure and training. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled on a state-by-state basis.

HVAC contractors in California must be licensed by the Department of Consumer Affairs Contractors State License Board (CSLB). HVAC contractors are considered specialty contractors by the CSLB. All contractors are required to have four years of experience and to be bonded, and contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. Reviewing feedback on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are completed to verify that it’s working properly. When getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, features, brand, model, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

A reputable HVAC company will back its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the company that provides the most protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written quotes before starting HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC in Laguna Woods, CA

Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.

The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it gets the most use.

You can save energy during the summer by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any leaks around your doors and windows to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.

It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be determined by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician runs into.

For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Laguna Woods, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.

For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Laguna Woods, you'll likely want a unit on the higher end of this range. Generally, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.

Your HVAC company might offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you find the best option for you.

There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:

  • Make sure your air ducts remain clean, and change or clean your air filters regularly.
  • Schedule regular inspections to take care of issues as they arise.
  • Make sure your doors and windows are well-sealed and keep your attic well-ventilated.
  • Install a smart thermostat. If you aren't able to purchase one, try to keep the temperature indoors as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable.
  • When you need to replace part of your HVAC system, explore Energy Star-certified or similar environmentally friendly options.

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